🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Legacy Year: 2001 Codes Chassis Code: BD/BG/BK (2nd Generation, facelift) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Mazda 626. Key Features AWD Standard: Subaru's signature symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system was standard across most trims, offering superior traction and handling. Reliability: Generally regarded for its robust engineering and longevity, particularly the powertrain. Body Styles: Available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door wagon (often referred to as the Outback Sport or Legacy GT Wagon). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Scope: Complete factory service and repair information Page Count Pages: Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for factory manuals) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: Likely a comprehensive printed manual or a digital PDF version 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all engine variants. Engine Performance: Ignition timing, fuel delivery, emission control systems, and performance tuning. Transmission Manual: Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions. Transmission Automatic: Diagnosis, overhaul, and repair of automatic transmissions. Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system components, differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints. Suspension: Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, and bushings. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and wheel alignment specifications. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS, hydraulic components, and bleeding procedures. Electrical System: Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, and diagnosis for all electrical circuits. Climate Control: HVAC system operation, diagnosis, and repair of heating and air conditioning components. Body And Interior: Panel removal, interior trim, door mechanisms, and exterior body component service. Safety Systems: Airbag system diagnosis and service, seat belt mechanisms. Chassis And Frame: Frame construction, underbody components, and corrosion protection. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, and belt inspections. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues. Component Removal And Installation: Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major and minor vehicle components. Overhaul Procedures: Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling major mechanical assemblies like engines and transmissions. Wiring Diagrams: Complete and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems. Torque Specifications: Accurate torque values for all fasteners critical to vehicle assembly and repair. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain procedures. Adjustment Procedures: Procedures for adjusting brakes, clutch, headlights, and other systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (searchable, printable) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, clear text and diagrams. Binding Type Physical Binding: Stapled, perfect bound, or spiral-bound (depending on original factory format or reproduction quality). Paper Type Physical Paper: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: EJ251 (2.5L SOHC Flat-4) Displacement 1: 2457 cc Horsepower 1: 165 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque 1: 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code 2: EJ253 (2.5L SOHC Flat-4, later production) Displacement 2: 2457 cc Horsepower 2: 175 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque 2: 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Optional Engine Turbo Engine Code Turbo: EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo Flat-4, found in GT models) Displacement Turbo: 2457 cc Horsepower Turbo: 212 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Turbo: 241 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (91 octane for turbo models) Engine Layout Configuration: Horizontally opposed ('Boxer') 4-cylinder Engine Features DOHc Sohc: SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) for non-turbo, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) for turbo models. Timing Drive: Timing belt 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 5-speed manual transmission Optional Transmission Type Opt: 4-speed automatic transmission (with overdrive) Features AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models). Transfer Case: Viscous coupling center differential (part of the AWD system). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Sedan: 4705 mm (185.2 in) Length Wagon: 4765 mm (187.6 in) Width: 1730 mm (68.1 in) Height Sedan: 1425 mm (56.1 in) Height Wagon: 1485 mm (58.5 in) Wheelbase: 2630 mm (103.5 in) Ground Clearance: Approx. 150 mm (5.9 in) Weights Curb Weight Avg: Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3200-3400 lbs), depending on trim and configuration. Gross Vehicle Weight: Varies by model, typically around 1900-2000 kg. Towing Capacity: Not typically specified or recommended for substantial towing. Cargo Cargo Volume Sedan: Approx. 15.1 cu ft Cargo Volume Wagon: Approx. 39.4 cu ft (with rear seats up), expandable with seats folded. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Driver: Good NHTSA Front Passenger: Good IIHS Frontal Offset: Acceptable Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. AWD: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability. Passive Features Airbags: Dual front airbags standard; side airbags optional on some trims. Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts...
While less common on the EJ251/EJ253 compared to later generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly external leaks.
Automatic Transmission:
Some automatic transmissions might exhibit delayed engagement or slipping issues over time, often related to fluid degradation or valve body issues.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear out, leading to humming or grinding noises, especially at higher speeds.
Cv Axles:
CV boots are prone to tearing, which can lead to premature CV joint failure if not addressed.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracks in the exhaust manifold (especially on the driver's side) can cause ticking noises and exhaust leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Specialty:
Subaru has a long history of producing reliable, capable vehicles, with a particular focus on AWD and boxer engines.
Model Evolution
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation (BD/BG/BK) Subaru Legacy, which ran from 1994 to 1999, but this specific manual is for the 2001 model year, which represents a facelift and continuation of this generation or an early part of the third generation's design lineage.
Updates 2001:
The 2001 model year saw cosmetic updates and potential minor powertrain refinements over the earlier second-generation models.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Often received good ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for its safety structure in its era.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above average for reliability in its class during its production years, especially concerning the AWD powertrain.